Jules-Bernard Gélibert (French, 1834-1916): A bronze model of a bloodhound entitled 'Druid'
the seated dog on naturalistic oval base signed Jules Gélibert and with inscribed PEYROL foundry mark, mid-brown patination, 34.5cm high
Footnotes:
Primarily known as a painter, Gélibert won medals from 1869-1900, including bronze medals at the Expositions Universelle of 1889 and 1900.

The vogue for animalier portraiture in France in the late 19th century was encouraged by royal patronage and is illustrated with Carpeaux's celebrated portrait of the Prince Imperial with his dog Nero, Frémiet's depiction of Napoleon III's hounds 'Ravageot' and 'Ravageole' along with the present lot.

The subject, 'Druid' was a favorite pet of Charles Louis Napoleon Bonaparte (d.1873) who became Napoleon III in 1852. Another Peyrol cast of this same subject inscribed 'DRUID S.A.J. le Prince Napoléon' is illustrated by Christopher Payne's reference'Animals in Bronze, Woodbridge' (1986, p. 215, pl. D45). where the author describes it as an 'immensely sensitive and rare portrait'
This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: * TP
* VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.
TP Lot will be moved to an offsite storage location (Cadogan Tate, Auction House Services, 241 Acton Lane, London NW10 7NP, UK) and will only be available for collection from this location at the date stated in the catalogue. Please note transfer and storage charges will apply to any lots not collected after 14 calendar days from the auction date.